Lights, Camera, and Coastal Pride: Your Gold Coast Morning Briefing

Sunrise Over the Screen: The Gold Coast Morning Briefing

Good morning, Gold Coast! It is Thursday, February 5, 2026, and the city is waking up to a spectacular summer day. With clear skies and temperatures climbing to a top of 29°C, it is the perfect backdrop for the star-studded events currently taking over our city.

The Mood: Cinematic Energy

The vibe across the city today is electric as we dive into the heart of the AACTA Festival. Currently transforming HOTA (Home of the Arts) into a premier screen culture hub, the festival is bringing together Australia’s top creative talent. Today specifically marks the AACTA Industry Conference Day, where filmmakers and industry leaders are gathering to connect and innovate. With more than 70 festival events scheduled, including movie deconstructions and talent meet-and-greets, the presence of the screen industry is giving the Coast a sophisticated, "Hollywood of the South" glow.

Key Talking Points: Revitalising Burleigh and Titans Loyalty

Local conversations are dominated by two major developments today:

• Burleigh Foreshore Overhaul: The City has officially opened community consultation for the Burleigh Heads Foreshore Revitalisation Project. With the aging seawall needing a total reconstruction to protect against erosion and large swells, residents are being asked to have their say on plans that include a widened Oceanway, new picnic facilities, and options for a swimming lagoon at Rudd Park.
• Big Tino Stays: Titans fans are still celebrating after skipper Tino Fa'asuamaleaui officially committed his future to the club until the end of the 2030 season. Rookie coach Josh Hannay successfully convinced the powerhouse forward to ignore rival offers, putting an end to months of speculation and securing the bedrock of the Titans' pack for the next four years.

Feel-Good Story: Celebrating Our Local Heroes

In a heartwarming call to the community, nominations are now officially open for the 2026 Gold Coast Australian of the Year Awards. This is our chance to shine a light on the quiet achievers, volunteers, and innovators who make our city a better place. If you know someone who has gone above and beyond—whether in charity, sport, or community service—today is the day to start their nomination and ensure their contributions are recognized on the city's biggest stage.

Quick Local Alerts

• Weather: Sunny with a high of 29°C. Humidity is moderate, but the UV index is hitting an extreme level of 12, so stay sun-safe if you are heading to the AACTA outdoor screenings or the beach.
• Traffic: Expect slightly heavier congestion around Bundall and Surfers Paradise as festival-goers flock to HOTA.